I hope you had the opportunity to attend the Third Annual Battle of the Badges, where Palm Bay Fire Rescue and the Palm Bay Police Department once again took the court for an evening of friendly competition and community spirit. With the series tied 1-1, the Palm Bay Police Department came ready to play and reclaimed the Battle of the Badges trophy this year. Congratulations to our Police Department on the win, and thank you to both teams for their sportsmanship, energy, and dedication to making this event such an enjoyable experience for our community. We are grateful to everyone who came out to support our first responders, and we are already looking forward to next year’s rematch.
I am proud to congratulate two talented young athletes from our local community, Mackayla Blood of Palm Bay and Leighton Fowler of Melbourne, on earning spots with Team USA! Mackayla, a reigning national champion in aerial silks, and Leighton, an accomplished competitive aerialist and recent People’s Choice Award winner at Brevard’s Got Talent, will represent the United States at the International Aerial Arts Organization World Championships in Aruba this August. I was able to pray for both of these young ladies in their journey forward. Competing on the world stage is an incredible achievement and a reflection of the strength, discipline, courage, and countless hours of training these young ladies have dedicated to their sport. I also want to recognize their mothers and families for the sacrifices they have made to support these young ladies and help them pursue their goals. From bringing them to practices and competitions to providing encouragement through every challenge, their love and dedication have played an important role in shaping the young women they are today. It is especially meaningful to see two athletes from right here in Brevard County representing our community and our country in such an important international competition. Congratulations, Mackayla and Leighton! We are proud of you and wish you the very best as you compete for Team USA. Palm Bay and all of Brevard County will be cheering you on!
I would also like to recognize Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos, who recently received the Secretary’s Extraordinary Achievement Award from U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This well-deserved honor recognizes her dedicated service to our nation and her efforts to improve the health and well-being of all Americans. Congratulations, Dr. Haridopolos, and thank you for your continued commitment to serving others.
On August 4, we proudly celebrate the 236th birthday of the United States Coast Guard and honor its long tradition of service to our nation. Since its founding in 1790, the Coast Guard has always remained ready to protect our shores, save lives, defend our homeland, safeguard our waterways, and respond when communities need help most. To every member of the Coast Guard, past and present, thank you for your courage, sacrifice, and dedication to duty. Your service reflects the very best of our nation and reminds us what it means to put others before ourselves. Happy Birthday to the United States Coast Guard! Semper Paratus. Always Ready. #OOHRAAH
Join the Palm Bay Police Department on Tuesday, August 4, from 5 to 7:30 PM at Fred Poppe Regional Park for National Night Out! Bring the entire family for an evening of food, music, and community connection. You will have the opportunity to meet our local officers, learn more about the Police Department’s specialty units, and see the equipment they use to help keep Palm Bay safe. The event will also feature a live SWAT demonstration, food trucks, local vendors, and activities for all ages. National Night Out is a great opportunity to connect with the dedicated men and women who serve our community while enjoying a fun evening with neighbors, friends, and family. I hope to see you there!
On August 7, we recognize Purple Heart Day and honor the brave men and women who were wounded or made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation. This year, Purple Heart Day holds special meaning for Palm Bay as we proudly recognize our designation as a Purple Heart City. This designation reflects our commitment to honoring Purple Heart recipients, our veterans, and the tremendous sacrifices made by our military families. I invite our community to join us on August 7 at 9:00 AM in front of Palm Bay City Hall for a special Purple Heart City sign unveiling alongside members of the Space Coast Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 453. This sign will serve as a lasting reminder that Palm Bay honors and remembers those who have sacrificed so much in service to our country. To all Purple Heart recipients, thank you for your courage, your service, and your sacrifice. We are proud to honor you today and throughout the year.
The first day of school is right around the corner, and I would like to wish all our Palm Bay students, teachers, and school staff a safe, successful, and happy school year! A new school year brings new opportunities to learn, grow, make new friends, and achieve great things. Whether you are starting kindergarten, entering your senior year, or somewhere in between, I encourage you to work hard, believe in yourself, and make the most of every opportunity. This is your time to shine! As students return to the classroom, I also ask drivers to slow down, remain alert, and watch carefully for children walking or riding their bikes to school. Please use extra caution in school zones and around school buses as we work together to keep our students safe. Best wishes for a wonderful school year!
I invite our residents to join us as we honor the life, service, and lasting legacy of Sergeant Frank Tobar. On Thursday, August 20, at 9:00 AM, the Palm Bay Police Department will hold its annual memorial ceremony at Sacrifice Park. Sgt. Tobar served our community with dedication, integrity, and compassion. He was especially known for his leadership of the Palm Bay Police Explorers Program, where he mentored and inspired countless young people. His commitment to service continues to guide those who knew him and those who follow in his footsteps. This ceremony is an opportunity for us to come together as a community to reflect, remember, and pay tribute to one of Palm Bay’s own. I encourage all who are able to attend and help us honor Sgt. Tobar’s memory.
Last, but certainly not least, August 30 is a very special day because it is the birthday of my beautiful wife, Lissette. Lissette, thank you for being my partner, my greatest source of encouragement, and such a constant light in the lives of everyone around you. Your strength, kindness, and joyful spirit make every day better, and I am truly blessed to walk through life by your side. I hope your birthday is filled with the same love, happiness, and laughter that you bring to our family and to so many others. You deserve to be celebrated today and every day. Happy Birthday, Lissette!
